P1racenews AI automatic summary:
MotoGP race winner Andrea Iannone will make a surprise return to the grand prix paddock, racing in the new Bagger World Cup support series
Andrea Iannone, a MotoGP race winner, will surprise the grand prix paddock by racing in the new Bagger World Cup support series. After his MotoGP career was abruptly halted due to a doping ban, now 36-year-old Iannone returned to full-time competition in World Superbikes in 2024, impressing with wins and podium finishes. Despite a break from racing in 2026 and failed plans with his team Cainam Racing, he will now join Indonesian entry Niti Racing in the Harley-Davidson Bagger series from round two onwards. Iannone expressed his eagerness for this challenge and aims to quickly adapt to the new bike and be competitive, starting at Mugello, a track he knows well.
The Bagger World Cup, born as a substitute for the suspended MotoE series on the MotoGP undercard, commenced at COTA in March and will continue its six-round season in Europe. In the exciting inaugural round, Eric Granado and Archie McDonald battled for victory in both races, showcasing tight competition and thrilling moments. Iannone’s teammates at Niti are Oscar Gutierrez and Dimas Ekky Pratama, promising a strong line-up for the team in this unique racing series.
